Maple-Glazed Baked Acorn Squash
This Maple-Glazed Baked Acorn Squash recipe transforms the humble acorn squash into a delightful side dish, perfect for any autumn gathering or holiday meal. The sweet and buttery topping made with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla beautifully complements the squash's natural sweetness. Roasted until tender and caramelized, this dish not only tastes delicious but also adds a stunning presentation to your dinner table. Share this warm, comforting dish with family and friends, and enjoy the cozy flavors of the season!
6
Servings
200
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Acorn Squash
1 (Halved and cleaned)
Butter
4 tablespoons (Melted)
Brown Sugar
1 tablespoon (Packed)
Ground Cinnamon
1 teaspoon (Ground)
Vanilla Extract
1 teaspoon (Pure)
Ground Cloves
1 pinch (Ground)
Salt
1 pinch (To taste)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Grease a baking sheet and a large baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
3
Carefully cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and fibrous strands.
4
Place the squash halves cut side down on the prepared baking sheet and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender.
5
While the squash is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, ground cloves, and salt until well combined. Keep the mixture warm.
6
Remove the squash from the oven and flip the halves so the cut sides are facing up. Arrange the squash in the greased baking dish.
7
Spoon the warm butter and spice mixture evenly over the cut sides of the squash.
8
Return the squash to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the squash is very soft and the top is caramelized.
9
Serve the baked acorn squash hot, and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Nutrition Information
13g
Fat
17g
Carbs
1g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main flavor profile of this Maple-Glazed Baked Acorn Squash?
The dish features a sweet and buttery flavor profile created with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a hint of cloves.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 6 people.
What is the recommended oven temperature for baking the squash?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How do I prepare the acorn squash before baking?
Carefully cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out all the seeds and fibrous strands.
How long does the squash bake during the first step?
The squash halves should be baked cut side down for approximately 45 minutes or until the flesh is tender.
What ingredients are used for the glaze?
The glaze consists of melted butter, packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, pure vanilla extract, a pinch of ground cloves, and a pinch of salt.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients required for this recipe.
Does this recipe contain protein?
Yes, each serving contains approximately 1g of protein.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
There are 17g of carbohydrates in each serving.
How much fat is in one serving of this dish?
Each serving contains 13g of fat.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is tagged as a vegetarian dish.
What is the total calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
How do I know when the squash is fully cooked?
The squash is done when the flesh is very soft and the top has become caramelized.
What should I do with the glaze once it is mixed?
Spoon the warm butter and spice mixture evenly over the cut sides of the squash before the final 15 minutes of baking.
Why is the squash initially baked cut side down?
Baking it cut side down helps steam the flesh to ensure it becomes tender.
Can I use cooking spray for the baking dish?
Yes, you can grease the baking sheet and baking dish with either butter or cooking spray.
What kind of vanilla is recommended?
The recipe calls for pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
Is this a good dish for Thanksgiving?
Yes, it is specifically tagged as a Thanksgiving and fall recipe side dish.
What category does this recipe belong to?
It is categorized as a Vegetable dish.
How much brown sugar is needed?
You will need 1 tablespoon of packed brown sugar.
What is the total baking time?
The total baking time is approximately 60 minutes (45 minutes initially plus 15 minutes after glazing).
Should the squash be served hot or cold?
The squash should be served hot to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
What is the role of ground cloves in this recipe?
A pinch of ground cloves adds a subtle aromatic warmth that complements the cinnamon and squash.
Is this considered an easy recipe to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe.
What type of squash is used?
This recipe specifically uses acorn squash.
How much butter is used in the glaze?
The recipe calls for 4 tablespoons of melted butter.
What is the serving size?
The specific serving size by weight is not provided, but the recipe is intended to be divided into 6 portions.
How much cinnamon should I add?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
What makes the presentation of this dish stunning?
The caramelization of the sugar and spices on the tender roasted squash creates a beautiful look for the dinner table.
Can this dish be served at holiday meals?
Yes, it is described as a perfect side dish for any autumn gathering or holiday meal.